Re: Ads for Georgetown Loop

Passengers were a bit disappointed about not having steam, however what was played up when engines 130 & 140 were in serveice was the fact that they were both unique....being the only ones of their kind, for their size and the fact that they were built to 36 inch guage. Additionally, if 130/140 were brought online, there was always the prospect of having at least half your trip with a steamer once whatever needed attention had been tended to.
If people see a steam engine in advertiseing only to get up there and find CHS/ Railstars "essence of steam" in place, they might turn around and go home if the 21 is the only thing running full time with 12 & 9 on stand by for special occasions. Only time will tell on that one.
As I said before, they haven't put a serious load of either of these locomotives yet. That will be the true test. I also have concerns about #12's rear truck on those curves. They are very tight by her design specifications and she might not be able to handle them not without reworking her rear truck. It can be done, but they dont have the luxury of time to do it right now if steam is going to run on May 28th per the RFP.
As for the Brass being on hand for opening day, I doubt they will, from back channel messages I have been getting, they have their doubts. There is supposed to be an VIP special prior to opening day, which they will no doubt show up for, pat themselves on the back and take off, praying that nothing screws up on May 28th.....thats my bet.